Problem with Passing a Course
I Was Not Able to Pass My RQI Course. What Can I Do?
American Heart Association RQI
The American Heart Association’s RQI courses are available nationwide, training hundreds of thousands of medical and healthcare professionals every year.
Occasionally, issues can come up, but don’t worry—we’re here to help. Below, you’ll find common reasons for course-related problems and step-by-step solutions to ensure you can complete your training without interruptions.
Need more help? Submit a request through our “More Assistance Needed” form, and our support team will guide you.
Why Could I Not Pass My RQI Course?
Pre-existing Injury
Performing CPR can be physically demanding and may strain your hands, wrists, arms, or body.
If you have any pre-existing wrist conditions, such as pain, carpal tunnel, weakness, or injury, it’s best to wait until you’re fully recovered before performing chest compressions, even on a manikin.
For individuals unable to complete the physical component, we offer an alternative option—the BLS Advisor certification card.
Problem with Software or the Manikin
On rare occasions, software or manikins may encounter issues. Our team regularly tests and monitors equipment both on-site and remotely, ensuring quick detection and resolution.
Each office is equipped with one or two backup stations. If one station isn’t working, we recommend students switch to the backup while we promptly schedule a service call to fix the issue.
Student Error
Students often make mistakes during skills testing, with the incorrect use of the bag valve mask being the most common. For example, this image shows an improper seal and an incorrect head tilt–chin lift method.
To improve success rates, students must watch mandatory review videos before testing. Our research shows that those who watch all videos complete the class 50% faster than those who skip them.
SOLUTIONS - What We Can Do to Help You.
Come Back And Try Again
You’ve already completed the hard part by passing the online course. Now, all that’s left is the skills test.
Reschedule your course using this form. If you didn’t pass the first time, no reschedule fee is required.
Switch to Virtual BLS Heartcode
Don’t want to practice again on the RQI Voice-Assisted Manikin (VAM)? You have another option.
Schedule a one-on-one virtual skills check with a BLS instructor via camera. The AHA permits virtual BLS skills tests but excludes ACLS and PALS.